Answering questions about carrying weapons on the streets of Spain
The use and carrying of weapons in Spain is strictly regulated by the Weapons Law and the Weapons Regulations, which establish clear rules on who can own, carry, or use firearms or self-defense weapons.
Unlike other countries, in Spain there is no general right to carry weapons in public, and any improper use can be considered a serious crime.
In recent years, interest in legal self-defense, the use of weapons for private security, and weapon licenses has grown, leading to questions about the permits, limitations, and penalties that apply in Spanish territory. Below, we will try to answer some of your questions.
Who can carry weapons in public?
In Spain, only specific individuals can carry weapons, under very specific circumstances.
Specifically regarding firearms, we can say that the State Security Forces and Corps, such as the National Police, the Civil Guard, the Mossos d'Esquadra, or the Local Police, are authorized to carry firearms while on duty or, in specific cases, off duty.
Private security guards can also carry weapons, only during their working hours and with express authorization from the Ministry of Interior. Under no circumstances can they carry them outside of work or without being in uniform.
Other citizens cannot carry weapons in public, except for very restricted exceptions and always with a valid license.
Regarding bladed weapons, such as knives or swords, they cannot be carried in public except for justified reasons.
Air rifles require a municipal card and can only be used in designated areas.
Bows and crossbows are restricted to authorized sporting or hunting activities.
The improper carrying or display of any weapon is punishable by the Citizen Security Law, even if a license is held.
Only security forces, authorized guards, or professionals with job justification can carry cutting tools or similar items, always without displaying them in public.
Who can carry a handgun in public?
Carrying a handgun in Spain requires a Type B license, granted by the General Directorate of the Civil Guard. This permit is very limited and is granted only in exceptional cases, such as for judges, prosecutors, or individuals who can prove a serious risk to their integrity.
Obtaining this license requires a psychological evaluation, shooting tests, a clean criminal record certificate, and documentary justification of the danger.
Even with a Type B license, the weapon must be transported unloaded and in its regulatory holster, not displayed in public, or used outside of authorized circumstances.
There are also the previously mentioned cases, such as the police and security forces, who are authorized to carry them due to their duties.
Can a weapon be carried in public?
No, carrying a weapon in public without specific permission is illegal.
The Civil Guard and the Police can confiscate the weapon, impose heavy fines, or file criminal charges.
Firearms can only be transported from one place to another (e.g., from home to a shooting range) unloaded and stored in a closed case.
Even bladed weapons have restrictions: carrying automatic knives, large knives, or sword canes is prohibited in public places; other types of weapons, such as swords, sabers, spears, crossbows, or air rifles, although they can be transported properly stored (in a closed sheath or case, without the possibility of immediate use) to places where their use is legal, such as sports clubs, shooting ranges, or authorized historical reenactments, cannot be publicly displayed.
Who grants permission to carry weapons?
Permission to carry weapons is granted by the Intervention of Weapons of the Civil Guard, which falls under the Ministry of Interior.
Each type of weapon has its corresponding license (A, B, C, D, E, and F), and each authorizes only specific uses, such as hunting, sport shooting, or self-defense under specific circumstances.
The process includes mandatory training, medical checks, a clean criminal record, and justification of real necessity.
Any falsehood or misuse can lead to sanctions or loss of the permit.
What weapons can a civilian carry?
A civilian with a license can possess hunting weapons (licenses D and E), sporting weapons (F), or, in rare cases, a handgun with a Type B license.
Non-lethal self-defense weapons, such as approved personal defense sprays or audible alarm devices, are permitted under specific regulations.
It is prohibited to carry realistic replicas, high-powered air rifles, or combat knives in public.
What can I carry for self-defense?
In Spain, it is not permitted to carry offensive weapons for self-defense, but some legal self-protection items are allowed, such as:
- Self-defense spray approved by the Ministry of Interior.
- Tactical flashlights or acoustic alarms.
- Phones with emergency alerts.
Any object that can be considered an offensive weapon may be confiscated, and its carrier sanctioned. Therefore, the best defense is prevention, common sense, and the use of authorized means.
In a summarized overview
Spain maintains a restrictive and secure system regarding the carrying of weapons, with the aim of preventing crimes and ensuring citizen safety.
Only authorized professionals or individuals with a special license can carry weapons in public. However, for personal protection, other items can also be used, such as approved sprays, tactical flashlights, acoustic alarms, and phones with emergency alerts.
When in doubt, before acquiring or carrying any type of weapon, it is essential to seek information from the Civil Guard and understand the current regulations to avoid sanctions.
